Best Bike Riding

Rillito River Trail

Readers Pick

Life is beautiful on the Rillito River trail, which wins an Oscar for its miles of desert scenes. Indeed, the lounging reptiles and quarreling packrats are five-star material, while the calls and chirps of desert wildlife are a soundtrack in themselves. Best of all, the trail runs alongside a very mystic river (there's never any water in it, only pooches walking their masters). Trailside attractions include numerous water fountains, benches and exercise equipment. There's even a picnic table or two. Travel far enough, and you might catch a glimpse of the Rillito Park racetrack. (If the sun's starting to get to you, it will look like a beached ship.) But whether you're incurring a sunburn, biking, jogging or just plain relaxing, this paved path is the perfect getaway.